The Hilary Mantel Prize: A New Beacon for Unagented Writers
Anna Dempsey has been awarded the inaugural Hilary Mantel Prize for Fiction for her novel, What we have is About an Alligator and Nothing Else. The prize, established in memory of the late Booker Prize-winning author, aims to support unpublished and un-agented writers across the UK and Ireland. Uduak-Abasi Ekong was named runner-up for her novel, A Kind of Resurrection.
The Rise of Prizes Supporting Emerging Voices
The creation of the Hilary Mantel Prize reflects a growing trend within the literary world: a dedicated effort to nurture and champion emerging writers who haven’t yet secured traditional representation. Historically, the publishing industry has relied heavily on literary agents as gatekeepers. However, this system can inadvertently exclude talented voices who may lack the connections or resources to secure agency representation.
Prizes like this one, and others focused on debut or unagented authors, are actively working to dismantle those barriers. They provide not only financial support – Dempsey received £7,500, while Ekong received £2,500 – but also invaluable mentorship and industry access. Both winning authors will receive mentoring from an agent at AM Heath and an editor at John Murray.
Mentorship and Development: Beyond the Financial Award
The mentorship component of the Hilary Mantel Prize is particularly noteworthy. Dempsey will also attend an Arvon Foundation residential writing course, and Ekong will attend an Arvon masterclass. This focus on skill development and industry guidance is crucial for helping new writers navigate the complexities of publishing. It’s a model that other prizes may increasingly adopt, recognizing that financial assistance alone isn’t always enough.
The Impact of Corporate Accountability in Fiction
Dempsey’s winning novel, set in Florida, tackles the theme of corporate accountability in the face of environmental damage. The story centers on a water contamination crisis and a protagonist investigating her father’s death, potentially linked to corporate negligence. This reflects a broader trend in contemporary fiction towards exploring real-world issues and holding power structures accountable. Readers are increasingly drawn to stories that engage with social and political themes.
West African Folklore and Psychological Horror
Uduak-Abasi Ekong’s novel, a work of psychological horror drawing on West African folklore, demonstrates another emerging trend: the increasing prominence of diverse voices and storytelling traditions. The incorporation of folklore and mythology adds depth and richness to narratives, offering fresh perspectives and challenging conventional genre boundaries.
The Judging Process and Industry Collaboration
The judging panel, chaired by Maggie O’Farrell and including industry professionals like Mantel’s longtime editor Nicholas Pearson, highlights the importance of collaboration between authors, agents, and publishers in identifying and supporting new talent. The prize reviewed 2,300 submissions, demonstrating a significant appetite for new work and a willingness within the industry to invest in unproven voices.
Pro Tip:
For aspiring writers, entering literary prizes – especially those focused on unpublished work – is a valuable strategy for gaining recognition and industry attention. Research prizes carefully to ensure they align with your genre and writing style.
FAQ
- What is the Hilary Mantel Prize for Fiction? It’s an award established in memory of Hilary Mantel to support unpublished and un-agented writers in the UK and Ireland.
- Who won the inaugural prize? Anna Dempsey won for her novel, This Is About an Alligator and Nothing Else.
- What does the prize include? The winner receives £7,500, mentorship, and a place on a writing course. The runner-up receives £2,500, mentorship, and a masterclass.
- How often is the prize awarded? The prize is awarded biennially.
What are your thoughts on the importance of prizes like this for emerging writers? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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